Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua/ HANDOUT

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has hit back at Jubilee Party leader Fred Matiang’i and Democratic Party (DP) leader Justin Muturi over accusations of political bullying and arrogance, insisting that his approach to Opposition unity is driven by electoral realities.

Gachagua defended his proposal to unite three political blocs – Mt Kenya, Ukambani and Western Kenya – arguing that their combined numerical strength could give the Opposition an advantage in the 2027 General Election.

Speaking at his Wamunyoro residence in Nyeri on Tuesday, where he hosted a delegation from the county, Gachagua claimed that some of his political colleagues were uncomfortable with his straightforward approach and insistence on discussing electoral numbers.

“Some my friends think that I am arrogant for being truthful. I am not arrogant. I am just truthful.”

“When I tell some we wake up and work, they say I am bullying them. No!” asserted Gachagua, who is also the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader.

His remarks came a day after Muturi accused him of using political bullying and ultimatums in his engagements with fellow Opposition leaders.

“Let it be clear: No individual owns the United Opposition, and no community has a monopoly on Kenya’s presidency. Political partnerships must be built on mutual respect, not ultimatums, political bullying or supremacy contests,” he stated.

Matiang’i had also criticised Gachagua’s numerical proposal, warning that it could undermine efforts to build a united Opposition.

"That majoritarian arrogance and that particular pride is precisely what is going to split the opposition and make it very difficult for the opposition to come together,” said Matiang’i, duringa television interview.

However, Gachagua maintained that presidential ambitions must be backed by the ability to attract votes, regardless of an individual's political standing or policy proposals.

“I have told those leaders that, when you want to be the president of Kenya, you must be voted for, regadless of the policies you have.”

“And for you to get votes, you must look for them. No vote can be found in hotels or in the television. Votes are looked for.”

He argued that electoral politics was fundamentally about numbers, maintaining that Opposition leaders needed to establish their potential voter base and develop strategies to secure a majority.

“Politics is a game of numbers. The science of politics is numbers. We are anticipating there shall be 26 million [registered voters]. To be on the safe side we must get 13 million plus 1. ..we must look for those numbers.”

Gachagua also invoked his experience in the 2022 General Election, claiming that his mobilisation efforts had played a significant role in securing President William Ruto's victory.

“I am a believer of numbers. I am also experienced. I delivered the presidency in the last election [2022] through mobilisation of numbers. Some are uncomfortable discussing numbers; but they must be discussed,” he said.